Determinants of Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in People Living with HIV, Followed up at Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo

Aims: The aim of the present study was to determine the level of adherence and the factors associated with good adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART) among people living with HIV (PLHIV).

Study Design: Cross Sectional Study.

Place and Duration of Study: Internal medicine department (Infectious Diseases Unit), Lubumbashi University Clinics, in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), between 15th May 2021 and 17th July 2021.

Methodology: We included 137 patients (56 men, 81 women; age range 18-70 years) with HIV and, all participants were interviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. The association between factors affecting adherence and the level of adherence was analyzed using a multiple logistic regression model, and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated. Among 137 PLHIV, 76.64% had good ART adherence (≥95%). Bivariate analysis revealed numerous factors associated with adherence (P = 0.05). However, in multivariate analysis, being on ART for more than three years and abstinence from alcohol were the factors influencing good ART adherence (P = 0.05).

Results: Among 137 PLHIV, 76.64% had good ART adherence (≥95%). Bivariate analysis revealed numerous factors associated with adherence (P = .05). However, in multivariate analysis, being on ART for more than three years and abstinence from alcohol were the factors influencing good ART adherence (P = .05).

Conclusion: Raising awareness among PLHIV, regular counseling of patients regarding daily intake of antiretroviral drugs and abstinence from alcohol, could contribute to good adherence and long-term success of ART among PLHIV.